Today marks 18 years since Nepal began practicing republicanism, achieved as a result of the peaceful people’s movement called by the then Seven Political Parties against the autocratic monarchy, and the armed struggle led by the then-rebel Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist).

On Jestha 15, 2065 BS (May 28, 2008 AD), the first meeting of the popularly elected Constituent Assembly formally ended the 240-year-old autocratic monarchy and declared a federal democratic republic. To commemorate this historic day, Republic Day is observed every year.

On this day, the Nepali people attained citizen sovereignty through an inclusive, proportional democratic republic based on liberty and social justice. Republic Day is also a celebration of the people’s victory over a hereditary regime.

The federal democratic republic has ensured full political rights for the people, uniting them toward building a prosperous future.

The primary responsibility of a democratic republic is to address citizens’ problems—such as in education, health, public transportation, and social security—while working toward poverty alleviation and uplifting Nepal’s global reputation.

Since the essence of a republican constitution lies in responding to public expectations and sentiments, it is equally important to observe this day as a pillar of democracy, reaffirming unshakable faith in citizens’ rights.

Democratic republicanism is not just a political system but also a governance model and a way of life, often seen as a product of liberal ideals.

Among governance systems practiced globally, democratic republics are considered the most effective, serving as powerful tools for improving people’s living standards and achieving national prosperity.

Meanwhile, the 18th Republic Day is being celebrated with great enthusiasm and a variety of events across the country. A special official ceremony will be held at the Army Pavilion in Tundikhel, where President Ram Chandra Paudel and other distinguished dignitaries will be present.

During the event, tributes will be paid to martyrs who sacrificed their lives for this transformative change, and the contributions of senior leaders who fought, sacrificed, and struggled for democracy will be remembered.

To establish social justice, independence, and prosperity in the country—and in the movements and struggles to achieve democracy—many Nepali citizens endured imprisonment and torture.

Leaders from various political parties have expressed hope that this day will further inspire people to engage in the mission of creating a prosperous and empowered citizenry within a democratic culture.

They emphasized the need for enhancing people’s quality of life through increased production, equitable distribution of opportunities, promotion of employment, and good governance.

Messages shared today call for a commitment to building a prosperous nation with a strong economy and for passing on a united, principled, liberal state with high democratic values to future generations.

If Nepal can move forward in unity and alignment with the people’s mandate, electoral outcomes, and constitutional provisions, then the federal democratic republican system can become strong, stable, and resilient. To institutionalize republicanism at the grassroots level, there is a need to cultivate republican values in every layer and section of society.

A democratic republican system must center on development, good governance, prosperity, and national dignity, ensuring every Nepali citizen’s participation in nation-building.